Winterizing Your Harley: The Ultimate Colorado Storage Checklist
Prepare for the Off-Season
Winter in Colorado is beautiful but harsh on motorcycles. When the snow starts falling in the Rockies, proper storage is crucial to protect your investment. Neglecting winterization can lead to dead batteries, gummed-up fuel systems, and corrosion. Follow this essential checklist to ensure your Harley-Davidson wakes up ready to ride when the spring thaw arrives.
Treat the Fuel System
Ethanol-blended fuels deteriorate quickly, leading to moisture buildup and clogged injectors. Fill your tank completely with premium gasoline to minimize air space where condensation can form. Add a high-quality fuel stabilizer, then run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the treated fuel throughout the system. This prevents varnish deposits from forming in the fuel lines.
Maintain Battery Health
Cold Colorado nights are the enemy of motorcycle batteries. If your bike sits dormant in a freezing garage, the battery will lose charge and potentially crack. Remove the battery or connect a battery tender to keep it fully charged. A tender monitors voltage levels to prevent overcharging, ensuring a strong start when riding season returns.
Change Oil and Filter
Old oil contains acids and combustion byproducts that can corrode internal engine parts during long storage periods. Perform an oil and filter change before putting your bike away. Fresh oil provides a clean, protective coating for engine components, preventing rust and preserving the longevity of your Harley’s powertrain while it hibernates.
Protect Tires and Surfaces
Freezing concrete floors can draw moisture and cause flat spots on tires. If possible, use a motorcycle lift to keep tires off the ground or inflate them to the maximum recommended pressure. Wash and wax your bike to remove road grime, then cover it with a breathable dust cover to prevent scratches and moisture trapping.
Why Trust Your Ride to Sun Harley-Davidson?
Choosing the right team to care for your Harley is just as important as the maintenance itself. As Colorado’s oldest Harley-Davidson dealership, Sun Harley-Davidson has been family-owned and operated since 1972. For over 50 years, we’ve been more than just a shop; we’re a pillar of the Denver riding community.
When you bring your bike to us for winterization or routine service, you aren't just getting an oil change—you’re getting:
- Factory-Trained Technicians: Our team consists of certified experts who live and breathe Harley-Davidson. They receive continuous training to stay current on the latest models and diagnostic technology.
- Genuine H-D® Parts: We use only authentic OEM parts to ensure a perfect fit and to preserve the performance and resale value of your motorcycle.
- State-of-the-Art Facility: Our service bays are equipped with specialized tools specifically designed for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, allowing us to perform everything from precision winterization to high-performance upgrades.
- A Passion for the Road: We’re riders, too. We treat every bike that enters our shop with the same respect and attention to detail we give our own.
Schedule Service at Sun Harley-Davidson
Proper winterization extends the life of your motorcycle and saves you money on spring repairs. Don't let the cold compromise your ride. If you need supplies or prefer professional help, bring your bike to Sun Harley-Davidson. Our service team offers expert winterization packages to keep your Harley in peak condition. Schedule your service appointment today.